BRISTOL, Conn. -- A Connecticut veteran has made it his mission to bring recognition to others who have served in the U.S. armed forces.

Henry Raymond began his military career during World War II, serving as a member of the Maine State Guard.

"I was 17 years old in 1943 when I went in," he said.

Raymond later served in both the Connecticut State Guard and the Army Reserve, retiring from his military career 20 years ago at age 60.

However, Raymond came out of retirement at age 80 and re-enlisted as part of the military honor guard.

"Every veteran is entitled to a military funeral. That's what we provide," Raymond said. "We had to enlist in the Connecticut State Guard and Reserve."

The honor guard, formed by Raymond late last year, provides a three-gun salute at the funeral of any honorably discharged veteran.

"Since Jan. 12 of this year, I think I have 85 funerals," he said.

Raymond said that sometimes he performs two to three funerals in one day.

For the past two decades, Raymond has also been working to help living veterans.

"He devotes his time to bring veterans in his car to sign up for their benefits," said Korean War veteran Wilfred Lavoie. "It's very important because veterans don't know sometimes that they have benefits coming to them."

Raymond said he helps veterans fill out applications for VA benefits.

He also created a memorial to veterans alongside Bristol's Memorial Drive. The path of personalized bricks bears the names of veterans.

Raymond also served for 39 years as a member of the volunteer Terryville Fire Department, and helped create a new fire company years ago.

"If it wasn't for him, we wouldn't have a firehouse up on Fall Mountain," said Connie Aubin, of Terryville.

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